BBC Two Northern Ireland

Westminster Abbey

Leonie Jameson

Flavia Rittner

Westminster Abbey: Episode 1

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Episode 1

BBC Two - Westminster Abbey, Episode 1

The new man in charge of the Abbey's upkeep takes part in an ancient initiation ceremony.

A look behind the scenes of the 1,000-year-old Abbey, following those who work and worship there. The new man in charge of upkeep takes part in an ancient initiation ceremony.

The plumber, the librarian, and the Abbey's press office 'tweeter' offer their insights into the inner workings of the place where royalty are married, crowned and buried.

The dean explains the Abbey's spiritual mission. He and his colleagues are also the guardians of a thousand-year-old World Heritage Site. The new man in charge of upkeep, architect Ptolemy Dean, attends an ancient initiation ceremony in which he promises to preserve the building and its treasures.

The 30 boy choristers who sing in the Abbey's world-famous choir go from competing to sing a high solo in the Ash Wednesday service to being asked to sing in Downing Street. International stars and singers including Rufus Wainwright and Hugh Masekela make guest appearances in the commonwealth service, attended by the Queen. On Easter Sunday, the people in the Abbey, a local community and a national institution, come together for a joyous celebration.

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A look at the iconic landmark, following the people who work and worship there.

An unprecedented look behind the scenes of one of Britain's most iconic landmarks, following the lives of the people who work, worship and live in this unique community over the course of a year

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